Top tips for simple DIY dryer maintenance

Like washing machines, dryers can be finicky, but understanding some of a dryer's problems can keep you from pushing the panic button. Check out these simple methods for keeping your dryer efficient.

Clothes dryers have become more energy-efficient in recent years. Older dryers had a thermostat to determine when the clothes were dry. The thermostat gauged the temperature of the air as it left the drum. As cool moisture was pulled out of the clothing, the temperature would rise and the dryer would eventually stop running.

Newer dryers have moisture sensors, metal strips inside the drum that determine the dryness of clothes through direct contact. Because moisture sensors are in direct contact with the clothes, they are likely to shut the dryer off sooner than a thermostat, making them more energy efficient than older models.

If you need to move a washer or dryer, these simple steps will prevent damaging the appliance or scratching your floors.

• First, disconnect the machine from any water, power and vent hookups.
• Get a helper and some old carpeting, rugs or pieces of cardboard. Tilt the machine onto its back legs while the other person slides the material under the front legs.
• Repeat the process for the back legs. Now you can slide the machine easily and without damaging the floor.

It is a good idea to do a thorough inspection of the dryer vent once a year to look for lint buildup or any other obstructions.

• Pull the dryer away from the wall, and disconnect the duct at both ends. Some ducts are held in place with clamps that can be unscrewed; others must be pinched with pliers to be removed.
• Wash or vacuum any lint from inside the duct, the vent cap, and the duct connection on the dryer. This is less of a problem if you clean the dryer's lint screen after each use.
• If there are signs of wear on the duct, replace it or patch it with duct tape.

When using your dryer, here are some helpful tips for maximizing its efficiency.

• To keep drying time to a minimum, be sure the dryer is vented properly.
• Don't overload the dryer, and keep the lint screen clean for maximum efficiency.
• If you can, dry one load right after another to use the heat that has already accumulated in the dryer to shorten your drying time.

Dryer won't start

• No power to unit.
• Door not latched.
• Selector knob is in incorrect position.
• Overheated motor.
• Check for blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker; make sure unit is plugged in securely.
• Make sure door is latched.
• Reposition knob in correct position.
• Wait for motor to cool.
• Call for service if dryer still won't start.

Dryer runs but won't heat

• Partial power to unit.
• Gas-supply valve may be closed.
• Faulty heating coils on electric models.
• Reset circuit breaker or replace blown fuses.
• Make sure valve is fully open.
• Call for service if necessary.
• Replace coils or call for service.

Clothes take too long to dry

• Exhaust duct may be blocked, too long or too narrow in diameter.
• Wash or vacuum any lint buildup from inside duct, vent cap or duct connection on dryer.
• Check owner's manual for correct duct length, diameter and installation.

Dryer gets too hot

• Clogged or incorrectly installed exhaust duct.
• Faulty thermostat.
• Faulty burner or controls on gas models.
• Faulty heating coils on electric models.
• Wash or vacuum any lint buildup from inside exhaust duct.
• Check owner's manual for correct duct installation.
• Replace thermostat; call for service.
• Replace burner or controls; call for service.
• Replace coils; call for service.

These simple tips will go a long way to maximizing the energy efficiency of your dryer. That way, you can decrease your electricity bill and improve the lifespan of your dryer, saving you money twice!